Fabrics: Almost Amish collection by Debbie Beaves and Cotton Supreme solids, both for RJR Fabrics[35]

Instead of using the dot/check multiprint found in the original quilt, Laura fussy-cut classic quilt blocks from a panel. She used coordinating solids to allow the prints and fussy-cut classic quilt blocks to be the center of attention.

Purple, coral, navy, and gray team up for a snappy wall hanging. Use the same coral or purple print in each block’s corners, then alternate the blocks for an interesting secondary pattern when the blocks are set side by side.

Basket units frame your favorite motifs fussy-cut from a panel print. Subdued hues transition perfectly from a long winter to early spring, as hints of color begin to emerge. Get the digital issue here.[2]

With careful placement of a deep orange fabric, Laura brought the square formed by the A and B blocks to the forefront. Her table topper was an experiment in blending light and dark prints and in creative the look of transparency and layers.

Consider these beyond-the-basics stitches when you're ready to embellish a project. Get the first five 2014 issues to learn 10 embroidery stitches. A project in the December 2014 issue will incorporate the year's stitches.